Chapter 500

Crystal slowly regained consciousness.

Darkness surrounded her.

The damp, musty smell filled her nostrils.

She found herself chained to a cross.

Her hands and feet were immobilized.

The cold metal seeped into her bones.

She struggled to look around.

The basement was empty.

Only the sound of dripping water echoed.

"Help..."

Her voice came out hoarse.

Her throat burned with dryness.

The iron door creaked open.

Three shadowy figures entered.

The leader wore a baseball cap.

The brim was pulled low.

A mask covered most of their face.

Two large men followed behind.

Crystal's eyes widened in terror.

"Who are you?"

Before she could finish.

A sharp slap struck her face.

Burning pain spread instantly.

"Filthy trash."

A woman's voice, deliberately low.

But laced with venom.

Blood trickled from Crystal's lip.

Her ears rang.

"What business is it of yours?"

Another slap followed.

The force made her head spin.

"A mere escort daring to climb so high?"

The woman sneered.

Her gaze dropped to Crystal's abdomen.

An underling handed her a dagger.

Its blade glinted coldly.

"How far along are you?"

Crystal trembled violently.

"Don't hurt my baby..."

"Over three weeks?"

The woman laughed mockingly.

"No heartbeat yet."

The dagger sliced through her robe's tie.

The cold blade traced her skin.

Tiny beads of blood emerged.

Crystal screamed.

"Scream all you want. No one can hear you."

The woman produced a pill bottle.

Mifepristone.

"Take it."

Crystal shook her head wildly.

Tears blurred her vision.

"I won't..."

The woman gripped her jaw.

Forcing the pills toward her mouth.

The two men pinned her down.

Struggling became futile.

The pills nearly reached her throat.

Then—

Bang!

The iron door burst open.

A tall figure stood silhouetted against the light.

Crystal's tears flowed freely.

Boss Liam had arrived.

The woman froze.

Her eyes beneath the cap widened in shock.

He was supposed to be overseas on business.